Book Reviews & Thoughts

For Real – Alison Cherry

Synopsis

No parents. No limits. No clue what they’re in for.

Shy, cautious Claire has always been in her confident older sister’s shadow. While Miranda’s life is jam-packed with exciting people and whirlwind adventures, Claire gets her thrills vicariously by watching people live large on reality TV.

When Miranda discovers her boyfriend, Samir, cheating on her just before her college graduation, it’s Claire who comes up with the perfect plan. They’ll outshine Miranda’s fame-obsessed ex while having an amazing summer by competing on Around the World, a race around the globe for a million bucks. Revenge + sisterly bonding = awesome.

But the show has a twist, and Claire is stunned to find herself in the middle of a reality-show romance that may or may not be just for the cameras. This summer could end up being the highlight of her life… or an epic fail forever captured on film. In a world where drama is currency and manipulation is standard, how can you tell what’s for real?

Review

I LOOOOOOOVED THIS BOOK. But I mean, there was almost no way I wouldn’t. I’ve religiously followed The Amazing Race while it’s been airing since season 7 (and now it’s on season 26!). As in, I’ve been following The Amazing Race for the past TEN YEARS. So yeah, you could say this book excites me. Plus, next season’s twist has a blind dating component. Maybe they got some inspiration from Alison Cherry over her? Imagine that!

What really shone about this book was it’s amazing creativity. I loved how wacky the challenges were, and I would LOVE to watch any of the following reality TV shows: McGyver Survivor, Speed Breed, Obstacle Kitchen, or Twin Cognito. The Limerick Game was so clever too. I have no idea how the author dreamt up these things, but they kept things going in a lighthearted way. This story could have easily dragged with Miranda’s worries or Claire’s teenage angst, but instead, it was perfectly sweet, funny, and crazy. The whole concept was insane, so I loved seeing it play out.

Also, Will Divine? So perfect. I wish things ended differently, but there’s nothing that can be done about that.

If you love reality TV (especially The Amazing Race), sweet love stories, strong families, kick-butt heroines, and insane creativity, THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU.